William Hill

Comparison of a Garment Steamer and an Iron

Both garment steamers and irons are used to make garments wrinkle free. The garment steamer uses steam to relax the fibers while an iron uses physical pressure and heat to do the same. The garment steamer gives it a dry cleaned look while an iron a crisp look. The option of choosing to buy a garment steamer or iron has to be decided based on personal need and availability of resources. A little research done either online or by interacting with other users can give a better idea. There are three kinds of steamers available. They are Portable garment steamer, Standing garment steamer and Professional steamers. The kind of steamer needed by you depends on your personal requirement.

If you choose a garment cleaner in place of regular iron a heavy duty steamer will be needed. Some people have a combination of an iron and a small steamer for travel.

Garment steamers can be used safely on a variety of fabrics. They include synthetic fabrics, sheer fabrics, fur and many other delicate fabrics. This is because while an iron comes in direct physical contact with the fabric the steamer does not touch the fabric. Steaming is done without direct contact. Any damage to fabrics, like burning, singeing, staining etc is therefore, avoided. For garments which require creasing special attachments are available in some garment steamers.

Can be used on all types of garments

Garment steamers can be used with success to de-wrinkle ruffles, frills and pleats in garments, which are otherwise very difficult with conventional irons. Garments which have intricate embroidery, sequins and special dresses like wedding gowns, party wear etc can be steamed easily and effectively.

The size of clothes does not matter. Small children clothes to upholstery fabrics, cushions, bed linen can be steamed. Garments can be steamed and freshened in hangers. Curtains and drapes can be made wrinkle free when they are hung. There is no need to remove them. Your home can be given an all round fresh look in a short time. There are handy compact garment steamers which can be used while traveling. They fit into your suitcase and are useful for people who travel frequently. There is no time lost in searching for drycleaners or laundry in a new place.

Time saving, easy to store and use

Garment steamers are light weight and do not cause any physical strain when using. Steam irons are heavy in comparison. Steamers heat up within minutes and do not take a lot of time when used. Your clothes are ready within minutes. They occupy less space and many come with collapsible rods for easy storing. Steamers do not require a separate table like an iron and can steam clothes in hangers.

Steamers promote good health

Steaming is effective in removing dust mites. Your upholstery and bed linen become dust free by using steamers occasionally. Hence it is useful for people who have problems of allergy. Bacteria are killed and foul odor is removed. Steamers also reduce physical strain.

There are some common precautions to be taken when using a garment steamer or iron. They are

The care tag of all garments must be checked before use.

Never leave steamers or irons unattended. Do not allow children to handle them.

Turn them off and disconnect them when not in use.

Use distilled water to avoid lime build up in water tanks.

All heating devices come with the hazard of burns and proper care must be taken when using them.

The water level in steamers and steamer irons must be checked regularly when using. Never use when the tank is empty and unplug when refilling.

There some points to be borne in mind when using steamers. Some colored clothes may run color when moist. Hence, when using steamers on colored clothes it is better to test a small patch for color fastness. Steaming must always be done on sealed surfaces only. With proper care and maintenance a garment steamer lasts long.